Madonna responds to critics who slammed Aretha Franklin tribute

Madonna has responded to critics of her VMAs tribute to Aretha Franklin, who branded it “self-indulgent”.

In a statement on her Instagram the singer defended her speech, saying it wasn’t a tribute but an “anecdote” of her relationship with the late Queen of Soul.

“I shared a part of my journey and thanked Aretha for inspiring me along the way. I did not intend to do a tribute to her,” she wrote.

“That would be impossible in 2 minutes with all the noise and tinsel of an award show,” she continued. “I could never do her justice in this context or environment.”

The singer had been slammed by social media users after Monday’s show, who called her “self-indulgent” and accused her of making the tribute “about her” when she shared a story about an early audition she had where she sang one of Franklin’s biggest hits, ‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman’.

“You are probably all wondering why I am telling you this story. There is a reason. Because, none of this would have happened, could have happened, without our lady of soul,” she said whilst on stage.

“She led me to where I am today. And I know she influenced so many people in this house tonight, in this room tonight. And I want to thank you, Aretha, for empowering all of us. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Long live the queen.”

The internet was not as amused with many tweeters angrily complained that Madonna had made the “tribute” all about herself, not about Aretha.

.@MTV is literally the first network that had an opportunity to give Aretha Franklin a proper tribute, and they decided to have @Madonna stand on stage… In the most cultural appropriative outfit possible… And talk about her rags to riches story